2008 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG is a high-performance luxury coupe known for its immense power and opulent features. The heart of this beast is a hand-built 6.0L Twin-Turbo V12 engine producing a staggering 604 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the CL65 AMG for its effortless acceleration and comfortable ride, while common dislikes include its high maintenance costs and complex electronics.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbo V12 (M275)

• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light. Often affects one or more cylinders.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per coil pack
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, warning lights on the dashboard. The ABC system is crucial for maintaining the car’s handling and ride quality.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the ABC system. This may include replacing accumulators, pumps, or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, whistling noises, or smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace the turbochargers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears, delayed engagement, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, warning lights on the dashboard. The ABC system is crucial for maintaining the car’s handling and ride quality.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the ABC system. This may include replacing accumulators, pumps, or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent engine issues, transmission problems, or complete engine failure.
  • Solution: Replace or reprogram the ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate or non-functional gauges, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, makes grinding noises, or gets stuck.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG, while offering exhilarating performance, is prone to several significant issues, particularly with its engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. The most common issues revolve around the ABC suspension, valve body issues, coil pack and ECU failures. The cost of repairs can be substantial, ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, making preventative maintenance essential for ownership.